State takes aim at predators

7-3-2012 Illinois:

Springfield, Ill. — Several measures aimed at sexual predators, including one prompted by the Penn State child sex abuse scandal, were among the bills signed into law during the week of June 24.

The expanded reporting requirements contained in House Bill 3887 (PA 97-711) will require university athletic department staff and other higher education employees who witness or suspect child abuse to report their concerns to state officials. The legislation was signed just days after former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky was convicted on 45 child sex abuse counts.

Three other measures targeting sex offenders also were signed into law.

Senate Bill 3579 (PA 97-699) prohibits sex offenders from participating in holiday celebrations, such as handing out candy at Halloween, or dressing as Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny at events where children are present.

Park districts would be able to run criminal background checks on job applicants to determine if they have been declared a delinquent minor for committing certain offenses, including sexual assault, under Senate Bill 3809 (PA 97-700).

Senate Bill 3258 (PA 97-698) clarifies information about violations that are to be included in the state’s Sex Offender Registry. ..Source.. by J-S Staff, The Journal-Standard